Safety boost for key road

A series of upgrades to reconstruct and widen a 1350-metre section of Chatsworth-wickliffe Road to boost road safety for Ararat district motorists are well underway.

Starting at a wide seal 450 metres north of Moffat Lane, crews have been carrying out base preparations for the construction of the new road, including land clearing, excavation and clearing ditches for drainage works to begin.

Ararat Rural City Council chief executive Dr Tim Harrison emphasised the importance of the safety upgrade, with Chatsworth-wickliffe Road an important link for motorists travelling to Lake Bolac and Wickliffe.

“The unevenness and narrow seal of Chatsworth-wickliffe Road causes a safety issue for many agricultural vehicles that use the area,” he said.

“Downer EDI Pty Ltd along with the council are working to deliver a complete reconstruction of the road pavement, installing guard rails, new culverts and carrying out drainage improvements.

“Once complete, the widening of the dip means it will greatly improve visibility and support the safe passage of heavy vehicle traffic.

“The council urges motorist to take extra care while driving through our rural roads while works are underway as there will be a number of heavy vehicles seeking alternative routes.”

The Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program is funding the $798,129 upgrade, scheduled to be complete this month.